With Christmas and New Year approaching, environmental group BAN Toxics kicked off its annual campaign in Barangay Payatas, Quezon City to prevent fireworks-related injuries and promote eco-friendly celebrations.

Around 2,000 people, including students, teachers, local residents, officials, and representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), rallied under the theme “Iwas Paputok, Iwas Disgrasya, Iwas Polusyon”.

The event coincided with International Human Rights Day, underscoring the need to protect children’s right to health and a safe environment.

“Let us be reminded this Human Rights Day that our children have the right to be safeguarded from exposure to environmental risks,” said BAN Toxics executive director Reynaldo San Juan Jr. He stressed that fireworks-related injuries remain a serious threat, particularly to children, and urged for safer, more responsible holiday celebrations.
 
Department of Health data shows a troubling rise in fireworks injuries, from 307 in 2022 to 609 in 2023—up 50% in just one year.

BAN Toxics called on authorities to intensify efforts to confiscate banned firecrackers, which are still being sold by street vendors in places like Divisoria. Popular illegal items include Piccolo (P180 per pack), Five Star (P120 per pack), and Pla-pla (P180 per pack).

The PNP released a list of prohibited firecrackers last year, which includes Watusi, Poppop, Five Star, Pla-pla, Piccolo, Giant Bawang, Goodbye Bading, Goodbye Philippines, Atomic Bomb, Super Lolo, Hello Colombia, Judas’ Belt, Giant Whistle Bomb, Atomic Triangle, Mother Rocket, Goodbye De Lima, Goodbye Napoles, Coke-in-Can, Super Yolanda, Pillbox Star, Kabasi, and Hamas.

“Beyond the injuries these firecrackers cause, they also pose serious health risks, especially to children who are particularly vulnerable,” said Thony Dizon, BAN Toxics campaign and advocacy officer.

The chemicals found in firecrackers include cadmium, lead, chromium, aluminum, magnesium, nitrates, nitrites, phosphates, sulfates, carbon monoxide, copper, manganese dioxide, potassium, sodium, zinc, and oxides of nitrogen and sulfur. Exposure to these chemicals can damage the nervous and respiratory systems.

During the awareness activity, BAN Toxics showcased giant replicas of banned firecrackers to highlight their dangers. Participants were encouraged to use safe alternatives, such as homemade noise-makers and musical instruments, to celebrate the New Year.

The event also highlighted eco-friendly alternatives for holiday decorations. Students at Payatas B Elementary School displayed zero-plastic lanterns made from biodegradable materials like abaca, leaves, and coconut fibers, promoting sustainable celebration practices.

“This initiative highlights how festive traditions can be celebrated sustainably to reduce environmental impact while fostering creativity and community involvement,” said Antonio Miranda, school principal of Payatas B Elementary School. The school is part of BAN Toxics’ Toxics-Free Schools Program, which promotes proper chemical handling and waste management.

San Juan Jr. affirmed that BAN Toxics will continue its campaign to curb illegal firecracker sales and raise awareness throughout the season. “We will keep promoting safer, eco-friendly celebrations to ensure the health and safety of the public, especially children, during this festive season,” he said.